U.S. Code > Title 46 Shipping > Subtitle V—Merchant Marine (§§ 50101—58109) > Part D—Promotional Programs (§§ 55101—55605) > CHAPTER 551—COASTWISE TRADE (§§ 55101—55121) > § 55103. Transportation of passengers

§ 55103. Transportation of passengers

(a) In General.— Except as otherwise provided in this chapter or chapter 121 of this title, a vessel may not transport passengers between ports or places in the United States to which the coastwise laws apply, either directly or via a foreign port, unless the vessel—
(1) is wholly owned by citizens of the United States for purposes of engaging in the coastwise trade; and
(2) has been issued a certificate of documentation with a coastwise endorsement under chapter 121 or is exempt from documentation but would otherwise be eligible for such a certificate and endorsement.
(b) Penalty.— The penalty for violating subsection (a) is $300 for each passenger transported and landed.